Report: crisis will be big hit to region's tourism sector

The disastrous financial effects of the COVID-19 crisis are being felt around the globe. But new research from a local agency reveals the economies of Florida and the Tampa Bay region, in particular, will be among the hardest hit. 

In an April 21 report, the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council says Florida’s heavy reliance on tourism and hospitality, as well as its dependence on sales tax, will exacerbate the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.